세계 식품 산업용 로봇 시장 규모는 2024년 27억 1,000만 달러에 달했습니다. IMARC Group은 이 시장이 2033년까지 62억 9,000만 달러에 달하고, 2025-2033년 9.32%의 연평균 복합 성장률(CAGR)을 보일 것으로 예측했습니다. 현재 유럽이 시장을 독점하고 있으며, 2024년에는 30.8% 이상의 큰 시장 점유율을 차지할 것으로 예측됩니다. 노동력 부족, 기술 개발, 가공식품 수요 증가, 식품안전법 강화, 식품의 품질과 다양성에 대한 소비자 기대치 상승 등이 시장 성장에 기여하고 있습니다.
식품 산업용 로봇 시장은 효율성 향상, 비용 절감, 위생 기준 유지를 위한 식품 가공 및 포장 자동화에 대한 수요 증가에 힘입어 성장하고 있습니다. 분류, 소분, 품질 검사 등의 작업에 로봇 도입이 증가하고 있는 것은 인력 부족과 일관된 제품 품질의 필요성이 그 배경입니다. 예를 들어, 2024년 9월, Chipotle Mexican Grill은 아보카도 준비와 그릇 조립을 빠르게 하기 위해 캘리포니아의 두 매장에서 로봇을 시범 도입할 계획을 발표했습니다. Autocado 로봇은 아보카도를 26초 만에 반으로 자를 수 있고, Augmented Makeline은 그릇 조립을 자동화합니다. 포장식품 및 가공식품에 대한 소비자의 선호와 엄격한 식품 안전 규제 또한 로봇 솔루션에 대한 투자를 촉진하고 있습니다.
미국 식품 산업용 로봇 시장의 주요 촉진요인으로는 노동력 부족에 대응하고 식품 생산 및 포장의 업무 효율성을 높이기 위한 자동화 추진을 들 수 있습니다. 엄격한 식품 안전 및 품질 기준을 충족하기 위해 로봇의 채택이 증가하고 있으며, 이는 규정 준수를 보장하고 오염 위험을 최소화하는 데 도움이 되고 있습니다. 포장식품, 조리식품, 가공식품에 대한 소비자 수요 증가로 인해 제조업체들은 로봇 솔루션을 통해 공정을 간소화할 수 있는 방안을 모색하고 있습니다. AI와 머신러닝의 통합을 포함한 기술 발전은 다양한 산업의 요구에 대응하는 로봇 시스템의 적응성과 정확성을 향상시킵니다. 예를 들어, 2024년 12월 달라스 다운타운에서 자율주행 음식 배달 로봇이 지역 내 두 곳의 레스토랑의 식사를 제공하는 서비스를 시작했습니다. Avride는 UberEats 앱을 통한 초근거리 배달을 위해 설계된 5대의 로봇을 배치했습니다. 360도 카메라가 장착된 이 로봇은 시속 10마일 이하로 인도와 도로를 이동하며 안전한 배송을 보장합니다. 또한, 지속 가능하고 비용 효율적인 식품 생산에 대한 관심이 높아지면서 이 분야에서의 로봇 도입이 더욱 가속화되고 있습니다.
세계적으로 심화되는 노동력 부족
반복적인 수작업에 대한 관심이 줄어들고, 전 세계적으로 노동력 부족이 심각해지면서 기업들은 대안을 모색해야 하는 상황에 처해 있습니다. 미국 상공회의소에 따르면, 미국에는 800만 개의 일자리가 있는 반면 680만 명의 실업자가 있다고 합니다. 이에 따라 식품 산업용 로봇은 장기적인 적용 비용을 줄이면서 인간의 노동력을 거의 대체하여 많은 기계 및 인력 작업을 자동화하는 데 도움이 되기 때문에 또 다른 선택이 되고 있습니다. 식품 산업용 로봇은 일관성이 요구되고 노동집약적인 포장, 분류, 가공에 널리 사용되고 있습니다. 또한, 식품 산업용 로봇은 생산이 중단되지 않고 품질이 균일하게 유지되도록 보장하며, 때로는 비싸고 부족하기 쉬운 노동력에 대한 의존도를 최소화합니다. 또한, 휴식 시간이 필요한 인간과 달리 로봇은 지속적으로 일하도록 프로그래밍할 수 있기 때문에 인간 직원보다 제약이 적고 생산성이 향상됩니다.
최근 기술 발전
머신러닝(ML), 로봇공학, 인공지능(AI) 기술 개발은 식품 산업용 로봇의 능력에 큰 영향을 미치고 있습니다. 영국 정부에 따르면, 부문을 불문하고 머신러닝 기반 제품 및 서비스를 제공하는 기업의 비율은 2022년 21%에서 2023년 35%로 증가할 것으로 예상했습니다. 영국 정부에 따르면, 분야 전반에 걸쳐 머신러닝 기반 제품 및 서비스를 제공하는 기업의 비율은 2022년 21%에서 2023년 35%로 증가할 것으로 예상했습니다. 또한, 로봇은 시간이 지남에 따라 작업을 학습하고 개선하여 효율성과 효과를 높일 수 있습니다. 비전 시스템을 통합하여 로봇은 다양한 식품을 인식, 분류, 처리하고 색상, 크기, 모양이 다른 식품을 인식하고 처리할 수 있습니다. 여기에 더해 인간 작업자와 함께 안전하게 작업하고 생산 라인에 유연성과 효율성을 더하도록 설계된 협동 로봇의 도입이 시장 성장에 긍정적인 영향을 미치고 있습니다. 또한, 이 로봇은 다양한 활동을 위해 재프로그래밍 및 재배치가 용이하기 때문에 변화하는 생산 요구에 대한 적응성이 높습니다.
가공식품 수요 증가
즉석섭취식품(RTE), 즉 간편하게 조리할 수 있는 간편식에 대한 소비자 선호도 변화에 힘입어 가공식품 및 포장식품에 대한 수요가 증가하면서 시장 성장을 견인하고 있습니다. 미국 상무부에 따르면, 2022년 미국에는 42,708개의 식음료 가공시설이 있습니다. 가공식품은 일관된 품질, 안전, 위생 기준이 요구되지만, 수작업 공정으로는 이를 달성하기 어렵습니다. 이에 따라 식품 산업용 로봇은 제품의 품질을 유지하고 소비자의 기대에 부응하기 위해 필수적인 정확성과 일관성을 보장합니다. 또한, 자동화 시스템은 대량의 식품을 효율적으로 처리할 수 있으며, 브랜드의 일관성을 유지하는 데 중요한 크기, 모양, 포장의 균일성을 보장할 수 있습니다. 로봇 공학은 또한 품질을 희생하지 않고 변화하는 시장 수요를 충족시키기 위해 제조 규모를 빠르게 확장할 수 있게 해줍니다.
엄격한 식품 안전 규제 시행
식품의 품질과 안전을 보장하기 위해 엄격한 식품안전법이 시행되고 있으며, 이것이 시장 확대의 원동력이 되고 있습니다. 이에 따라 공정을 자동화함으로써 사람에 의한 오염 가능성을 줄일 수 있기 때문에 로봇은 몇 가지 규제 요건을 충족하는 데 필수적입니다. 또한, 로봇은 통제된 환경에서 식품을 취급할 수 있기 때문에 사람과의 접촉을 최소화하고 병원균, 알레르기 유발 물질, 이물질에 의한 오염 위험을 줄일 수 있습니다. 또한, 로봇은 식품 가공 및 취급의 균일성을 보장하며, 이는 품질 표준을 유지하는 데 필수적입니다. 또한, 식품 산업용 로봇은 추적성 및 데이터 로깅 기능을 제공하여 제조 절차에 대한 철저한 문서화를 통해 규정 준수를 지원합니다.
품질과 다양성에 대한 소비자의 기대치가 높아졌습니다.
식품의 품질과 다양성에 대한 소비자의 기대치가 높아지면서 시장 성장을 견인하고 있습니다. 미국 농무부에 따르면, 2022년 식음료 제조 사업장 수는 캘리포니아주가 6,569개로 전국 1위, 텍사스주 2,898개, 뉴욕주 2,748개로 이 분야 상위 3개 주를 차지할 것으로 예상했습니다. 고객들은 지식과 식별력이 높아짐에 따라 다양한 선택이 가능한 고품질 제품을 원하고 있습니다. 식품 분야에서의 로봇공학 도입은 다양한 유형의 고품질 제품을 효율적으로 생산할 수 있게 함으로써 업계가 이러한 기대에 부응할 수 있도록 돕고 있습니다. 또한, 자동화 시스템은 다양한 레시피, 원료, 포장 유형에 대응할 수 있도록 프로그래밍할 수 있어 소비자 수요의 변화에 따른 신속한 생산 전환을 가능하게 합니다. 또한, 식품 가공의 정확성을 보장하기 때문에 품질 기준을 유지하는 데 필수적입니다. 또한, 로봇은 사람이 식품에 접촉하는 것을 줄여주기 때문에 식품 제조에 로봇을 도입함으로써 식품 안전과 위생에 대한 고객의 우려를 해소할 수 있습니다.
The global food robotics market size was valued at USD 2.71 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 6.29 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.32% during 2025-2033. Europe currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 30.8% in 2024. Labor shortages, technological developments, the increased demand for processed foods, stricter food safety laws, and growing consumer expectations for food product quality and diversity are contributing to the market growth.
The food robotics market is driven by the rising demand for food processing and packaging automation to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and maintain hygiene standards. The increasing adoption of robotics for tasks such as sorting, portioning, and quality inspection is fueled by labor shortages and the need for consistent product quality. For instance, in September 2024, Chipotle Mexican Grill announced its plans to test robots in two California locations to expedite avocado prep and bowl assembly. The Autocado robot can halve avocados in 26 seconds while the Augmented Makeline automates bowl construction. Consumer preferences for packaged and processed foods and stringent food safety regulations also boost investment in robotic solutions.
Key drivers in the United States food robotics market include the push for automation to address labor shortages and enhance operational efficiency in food production and packaging. To meet strict food safety and quality standards, robotics are increasingly adopted, helping to ensure compliance and minimize risks of contamination. Increasing consumer demand for packaged, ready-to-eat, and processed foods has prompted manufacturers to streamline processes with robotic solutions. Technological advancements including AI and machine learning integration improve the adaptability and precision of robotic systems meeting diverse industry needs. For instance, in December 2024, Autonomous food delivery robots launched in downtown Dallas serving meals from two local restaurants. Avride deployed five robots designed for hyperlocal deliveries operating through the UberEats app. With 360-degree cameras, these robots navigate sidewalks and streets at under ten miles per hour ensuring safe deliveries. Additionally, the emphasis on sustainable and cost-effective food production further accelerates the deployment of robotics across the sector.
The rising labor shortage across the globe
The increasing labor shortage around the world as fewer people have an interest in doing repetitive manual jobs is pushing companies to find alternative ways. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, there are 8 Million job openings in the U.S. while there are 6.8 Million unemployed individuals. In line with this, food robotics have become another alternative since it helps to automate many mechanical and man-power tasks with the results of replacing few human working forces while reducing long term application costs. They are extensively used within packaging, sorting and processing which require consistency and are labor intensive. Furthermore, food robotics ensures that production goes uninterrupted, quality is uniform, and the dependency on labor becomes minimal as it could be expensive and scarce at times. Robots are also less restricted than human employees, as they can be programmed to work continuously, unlike humans who require periods of rest, thus improving productivity.
Recent technological advancements
Technological developments in machine learning (ML), robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) have significantly impacted the capabilities of food robots. According to the government of UK, the proportion of companies offering machine learning-driven products and services across sectors has increased from 21% in 2022 to 35% in 2023. According to the government of UK, the proportion of companies offering machine learning-driven products and services across sectors has increased from 21% in 2022 to 35% in 2023. Furthermore, they can learn and improve their tasks over time, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. Incorporating vision systems also allows robots to recognize, classify, and handle various food products, adjusting to differences in color, size, and shape. Besides this, the introduction of collaborative robots that are designed to work safely alongside human workers, adding flexibility and efficiency to the production line, is positively influencing the market growth. Additionally, they are highly adaptable to shifting production needs because they are easy to reprogramme and redeploy for various activities.
The increasing demand for processed foods
The escalating demand for processed and packaged foods, fueled by changing consumer preference for convenience foods that are ready-to-eat (RTE) or easy to prepare, is boosting the market growth. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, in 2022, there were 42,708 food and beverage processing establishments in the United States. Processed foods require consistent quality, safety, and hygiene standards, which can be challenging to achieve through manual processes. In line with this, food robotics ensures precision and consistency, which are essential for maintaining product quality and meeting consumer expectations. Furthermore, automated systems can handle large volumes of food products efficiently, ensuring uniformity in size, shape, and packaging, which is critical for brand consistency. Robotics also makes it possible to scale manufacturing quickly to satisfy changing market demands without sacrificing quality.
The imposition of stringent food safety regulations
Strict food safety laws are being enforced to guarantee the quality and safety of food items, which is driving market expansion. In line with this, robots are essential to fulfilling several regulatory requirements since they reduce the possibility of contamination brought on by humans by automating processes. Furthermore, robots can handle food products in a controlled environment, minimizing human contact and thus reducing the risk of contamination from pathogens, allergens, or foreign objects. They also guarantee uniformity in the processing and handling of food, which is essential for upholding quality standards. Additionally, food robotics provide traceability and data logging capabilities that aid in compliance by offering thorough documentation of production procedures.
The rising consumer expectations for quality and variety
The escalating consumer expectations in terms of food quality and variety are supporting the market growth. According to the USDA, in 2022, California led the nation in food and beverage manufacturing establishments, with a total of 6,569, followed by Texas with 2,898, and New York with 2,748, making them the top three states in this sector. Customers are seeking high-quality products with various options as they become more knowledgeable and discriminating. Robotics adoption in the food sector helps industries satisfy these expectations by enabling them to produce a wide range of high-quality items efficiently. Additionally, automated systems can be programmed to handle different recipes, ingredients, and packaging types, allowing for quick shifts in production to accommodate changing consumer demands. In addition, they guarantee accuracy in food processing, which is essential for upholding standards of quality. Furthermore, since robots reduces human touch with food, its incorporation into food manufacturing meets customer concerns about food safety and hygiene.
Articulated stand as the largest type in 2024, holding around 42.3% of the market. Articulated robots leads the market as they are very flexible and can mimic a human arm movement, allowing it to perform a lot in food processing and packaging. These also provide a lot of freedom, making them the ideal for complex operations, such as cutting, deboning, and intricate food assembly. Besides, the articulated robots are suited in conditions that require precision along with versatility. Besides these characteristics, they can overcome obstacles and work in enclosed places, which makes them in invaluable in crowded production sites. Furthermore, the continuous enhancement in control systems and technologies about end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) enhances articulated capabilities and supports market growth.
Medium leads the market with around 42.8% of market share in 2024. Medium payload robots are dominating the market because they balance between payload capacity and flexibility and are highly versatile and can be used in several applications in the food industry. They are predominantly used in palletizing, packaging, and transferring of larger food items or batches. Their robust designs provide them with the functionality and stability required to execute high payloads. This serves effectively in preserving product integrity while ensuring safety. These advanced control systems and sensor help medium payload robots execute intricate tasks and process information accurately and systematically.
Palletizing leads the market with around 29.8% of market share in 2024. Palletizing is dominating the market as it makes use of robots to stack food products or packages onto pallets for shipping and storage. Moreover, palletizing robots are designed to carry heavy loads and large volumes to ensure efficient and precise stacking of products. Additionally, they can operate at high speeds, thereby greatly improving the throughput of palletizing operations in food processing facilities. In addition to these aspects, the application of robots for palletizing improves productivity while diminishing the physical pressure on workers thereby enhancing the safety in the working premises. Furthermore, robots can be programmed for different types of pallet patterns and types of products, making them adaptable to various operational needs.
In 2024, Europe accounted for the largest market share of over 30.8%. Europe leads the market mainly due to its well-established industrial base with a long history of automation and innovation, which gives it a good foundation for the integration of robotics in food processing and packaging. Moreover, regional countries are on the leading edge of adopting the latest technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and advanced sensor technology, all of which improve the capabilities and applications of food robots. In addition to this, the stringent food safety and hygiene regulations across Europe necessitate the adoption of automation to ensure compliance and maintain high standards of food quality thereby contributing positively to the market growth. High labour cost in the region is also encouraging food companies to invest in robotics to reduce dependency on manpower and increase production, thereby fueling up the market growth.
North America Food Robotics Market Analysis
The North American food robotics market is growing steadily, with major drivers being the adoption of automation in the food and beverage industry. Companies are using robotic systems to increase production efficiency, reduce operational costs, and maintain high standards of food safety and quality. This includes the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning that allow robots to carry out intricate tasks, including precision cutting, sorting, and quality control. In turn, robotics is playing a very key role in this transformation where consumers' preferences for convenience and on-demand food are being met through optimizing the production process and the possibilities for customization. In addition, increasing trends towards sustainable practices motivate producers to implement robotics for reduction in waste and energy use. The contactless service trends have further sped up the adoption of robotic solutions into services such as food packaging and delivery, which have consequently expanded the food robotics market within the region.
United States Food Robotics Market Analysis
In 2024, United States accounted for a share of 88.70% of the North America market. The food robotics market in the United States is experiencing significant growth due to several key drivers. Companies are increasingly adopting robotic technologies to enhance production efficiency and reduce labor costs as automation is streamlining food processing and packaging operations. Manufacturers are integrating AI and machine learning into robots enabling them to perform complex tasks such as sorting, packaging and quality control with high precision. As consumer demand for personalized food products and faster delivery is rising robotics is helping to meet these needs by improving production speed and customization. According to USDA, in 2022, approximately 20% of U.S. consumers made grocery purchases through online channels. Additionally, food safety regulations are pushing companies to invest in robotic systems that ensure consistent product quality and reduce human error. The growing trend of contactless services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic is also accelerating the adoption of robotics for tasks like cooking, packaging and delivery thus contributing to the market's expansion.
Asia Pacific Food Robotics Market Analysis
The food robotics market across the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing robust growth, driven by a range of key factors including increasing demand for automation in food processing boosting the adoption of robotic solutions, enhancing efficiency and reducing labor costs. According to the IBEF, the food processing sector accounts for 32% of the total food market and is a key industry within the country, representing 13% of total exports and 6% of industrial investments. Manufacturers are integrating robotics to improve precision and consistency in food production, addressing challenges like food safety and quality. Technological advancements, including the development of AI-driven robots, are enhancing capabilities and enabling more flexible production lines. Additionally, the growing need for personalized and on-demand food products is pushing food manufacturers to adopt robotics for faster and more customized processing.
Latin America Food Robotics Market Analysis
The food robotics market in Latin America is experiencing significant growth due to increasing demand for automation in food production. Companies are adopting robotic systems to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs. Technological advancements are enabling the development of more sophisticated robots capable of handling complex tasks. Rising consumer demand for processed and ready-to-eat foods is also driving the market. According to USDA, in 2023, the Brazilian food processing sector generated revenues of USD 231 Billion, reflecting a 7.2% growth compared to the previous year.
Middle East and Africa Food Robotics Market Analysis
The food robotics market in the Middle East and Africa is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for automation in food processing and packaging. Companies are adopting robotic technologies to enhance efficiency, reduce labor costs, and improve food safety standards. Technological advancements in robotics, coupled with a growing need for high-quality, consistent food production, are driving the market. Additionally, rising consumer demand for ready-to-eat products and a focus on sustainable practices are further boosting the adoption of food robotics. According to the USDA, the UAE is home to more than 2,000 food and beverage manufacturing companies, collectively generating annual revenues of USD 7.63 Billion.
The food robotics market is characterized by intense competition driven by the increasing demand for automation across various segments of the food industry. Companies are focusing on innovation integrating advanced technologies like AI and machine learning into their robotics solutions to enhance precision, adaptability, and efficiency. The market is segmented into applications such as processing, packaging and delivery with each segment witnessing rapid technological advancements. Players are leveraging strategic partnerships, research and development and tailored solutions to gain a competitive edge. For instance, in May 2024, ABB Robotics announced its partnership with South Korea's Pulmuone to develop automation solutions for lab-grown seafood. This collaboration aims to enhance production efficiency and minimize contamination while freeing researchers from repetitive tasks. Leveraging AI and robotics expertise, the initiative seeks to establish a sustainable mass production system for innovative seafood products. The growing emphasis on sustainability and hygiene standards is pushing firms to develop robotics solutions that address these needs. Competitive pricing, product differentiation and after-sales service are also key factors influencing market positioning and customer retention.